IRISH CUP FINAL: Oran Kearney hails the fans

The Blue and White Army have been out in force, home and away, to cheer on their beloved Bannsiders.

They will travel to the National Stadium in their thousands on Saturday and the Bannsiders’ boss highlighted how important they are to the team.

“The fans have played a huge part in our season,” he said, “It was disappointing we didn’t get a goal or go on and win the game for them on Saturday.

“From Christmas onwards, they have doubled in numbers.

“They have followed us in huge numbers all around the country.

“When we went to Crusaders on Easter Tuesday night the noise was unreal.

“There is such a fantastic buzz about the club at the minute.”

The supporters gave the team a rapturous ovation at the final whistle following Saturday’s goalless draw at Glenavon, despite the disappointment of losing the league title.

Kearney admitted it was a tough one to take but was quick to point out the boys will be up for Saturday’s cup final.

“It was tough to take,” he said.

“You’re in it to win it. When you get to that final day someone is going to get hurt.

“Unfortunately it is us left feeling like that.

“You have to credit Crusaders, they knew they needed to win the game and they did win their game.

“It was always out of our hands unfortunately.

“I don’t see the need to pick anyone up.

“If I thought I needed to pick someone up they wouldn’t be in the squad, it’s as simple as that.

“The players know what is at stake. We’ve been there and done that last year.

“That experience has left us with a lot of anger and hurt and we want to go there and put that result right.

“With that in mind, the thought of having to pick anyone up shouldn’t be there. We will freshen the legs up again this week and we’ll look forward to a big game on Saturday.”